In Latvia, a unique exhibition celebrating the Crimean Tatar heritage of Ukraine was unveiled
In the capital of Latvia, Riga, at the prestigious Latvian National Museum of Art, the exhibition titled «QALQAN.
Symbols of Crimean Tatars» was inaugurated, aiming to promote and preserve the cultural legacy of the Crimean Tatar people.
This exhibition acts as a bridge between history and modernity, combining traditional decorated combat shields — qalqan, created by Ukrainian artist Rustem Skibin — with contemporary artistic installations that carry profound symbolic meaning.
Abstract elements of folk ornamentation and ceramic art motifs are harmoniously integrated within the exhibition space, emphasizing the uniqueness and timeless relevance of Crimean Tatar culture.
According to Ukraine’s Ambassador to Latvia, Anatoliy Kutsevol, this event holds special significance: “Crimea is an inseparable part of Ukraine.
Its culture and history are fundamental components of our national identity, and we are proud to share this with the global community.” The opening was attended by prominent representatives of Latvian cultural and government institutions, including the Minister of Culture Agnese Lāce, the Secretary of Defense Aivars Puriņš, and the director of the museum, Mara Lāce.
Alongside, other cultural initiatives were presented, such as the «Landentity» exhibition at the Ukrainian Diaspora Museum, which explores the influence of landscape on identity formation.
The exhibition was organized with the support of the Ukrainian Embassy in Latvia, the NGO «EL CHEBER», and the National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine.
This event exemplifies Ukraine’s active cultural diplomacy around the world, despite the challenges posed by the temporary occupation of Crimea.
The ambassador emphasized that even under difficult circumstances, Ukraine continues to support its cultural heritage and strives to showcase the beauty and richness of the Crimean Tatar people.
This exhibition symbolizes the resilience and cultural unity of the Ukrainian nation, which aims to preserve its history and traditions for future generations.